Amblyopia is also known as “lazy eye”. It is an eye condition that causes poor vision in children that is not correctable by glasses or contact lenses. For some reason, the brain does not recognize the images seen by the amblyopic eye.

Causes of amblyopia

strong prescription, not corrected

eye turn

large prescription difference in the two eyes

a blockage of vision due to lid drop, congenital cataracts, trauma, etc

Why is early intervention important?

Before age 7 is the critical period for the eyesight to develop. After a child is 8 to 10, the brain’s visual system is complete. So if the amblyopia hasn’t been treated by this age, the child will be left with poor vision for life.

Treatment of amblyope

Early intervention is critical by using glasses, eye patching and vision therapy.